Diocesan Synod Summary – 10 May 2025

Diocesan Synod 10 May 2025 

On Saturday 10th May the Diocesan Synod met at The Minster School, Southwell with the Archdeacon of Newark, The Venerable Tors Ramsey, leading opening worship.  

Annual General Meeting

Synod voted unanimously to receive the Annual Report and Financial Statements, as recommended by Bishop’s Council following their meeting on 29 April 2025. Canon Michael Arlington, Chair of Finance, provided an overview of financial performance and position. It was highlighted that Parish Share had increased significantly thanks to the hard work of the Parish Share Team and the relationship building between Diocese centrally and parishes.  The proportion of funding received from the National Church was highlighted. 

Bishop Paul announced that Michael was stepping down after 22 faithful years’ service as Chair of Finance and presented him with a frame print of Southwell Minster. 

Bishop’s Address

Bishop Paul spoke on the theme of spiritual revival, drawing from Isaiah 35. You can read the address here.

LLF Update

Bishop Paul provided a brief update on LLF.  The materials were shared by the LLF Programme Board and that in due course there would be an opportunity for Synod to consider these.  The proposal was not yet endorsed by the House of Bishops as there was concern that this proposal would not reach a decision that was unifying.

Growing Disciples Update

A Living Hope Story featuring Sam was shared, along with the latest vision video featuring Bishop Paul and Bishop Andy.

The funds available to parishes were highlighted and Associate Archdeacon Richard Kellett provided an update on the rural plan and progress so far.  

The Revd James Halstead introduced ‘Ready to Serve’ which was an innovative programme creating space, opportunity and inspiration for people to explore their sense of vocation and calling to ordained ministry.  

Governance Review

Mr Martin Cooper gave a presentation on the Governance Review, giving detail on why it had been deemed necessary, how it was conducted and the outcomes/recommendations. 

Reporting

Synod noted the Annual Reports from the Diocesan Board of Education (DBE), Diocesan Advisory Committee (DAC), and Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Panel (DSAP). The Independent Chair of DSAP, Sally Hodges, gave a brief presentation and answered questions. The Chairs and members of these bodies were thanked for their contributions. 

A detailed update paper from General Synod at its February sessions was provided along with a verbal update from Mr Peter Harris.  

Mr Martin Cooper, Diocesan Chief Executive

May 2025